Okay, sorry for the long update, but I was kind of having a writers block.
I don't know how long I stared at the screen, trying to decide what to
write next. As for the spelling errors and what not, feh I'll just leave
em, but no more complaining, or I won't update as much!
Winter Wonderland
Chapter Eighteen
Inu-Yasha waited patiently downstairs while Kagome was getting her stuff ready for their trip back to the past. The snow storm had subsided, which meant Kagome's family would be able to travel safely home tomorrow.
"I'm ready,"
The half demon turned his head towards the stairs to see Kagome come down, wearing her usual school uniform, "You're going to wear that?"
"I always do,"
"Well you might want to wear something different," said Inu-Yasha, pointing to the mark on her neck.
"Oh right, I'll change then," said Kagome, handing her new bag she had gotten from Sota and headed back upstairs to change.
Inu-Yasha sighed. Things were going to a little difficult to act like nothing happened between them so Miroku and the others wouldn't notice. Shippo would deffinetly be able to smell something different on Kagome, but he was too young to really understand. If Kouga were to show up though, that would definetly cause a problem.
Kagome came back down again in a blue turtle neck and a light brown skirt, "Better?"
"Much better," smiled Inu-Yasha.
Kagome grabbed her jacket and headed outside with Inu-Yasha at her side. The snow was falling lightly from the sky, but the sun was being blocked by the dark clouds. They entered to well house, and Kagome climbed on Inu- Yasha's back.
"You ready?" asked the half demon.
"Yup,"
Inu-Yasha jumped into the well with his mate on his back. In a matter of moments they had landed in the past. Kagome looked up to see it wasn't snowing in this era, but like her time the sun wasn't shining. The half demon jumped out and landed softly in the snow. He then started to walk towards the village. Inu-Yasha had missed being in his time, and was happy to be back. They stopped on the outskirts of the village and the half demon set Kagome down.
"Why did you stop?"
Inu-Yasha didn't answer as he wrapped his arms around Kagome and brought her into a tight embrace.
"Inu-Yasha?"
"I just want to hold you for a bit longer . . . we won't be able to do this for a while,"
Kagome nodded and wrapped her own arms around her mate. After a while they released each other and continued their journey to the village. Inu- Yasha briefly kissed Kagome on the lips before entering the village. The half demon put on his usual stubborn face as they entered Kaede's hut.
"Inu-Yasha! Kagome!" cried Kaede, standing up from her spot by the fire.
"Yeah were back," grumbled Inu-Yasha.
"Where are Sango and the others?" asked Kagome, not seeing them in the hut.
"Ye might want to sit down for this news,"
Inu-Yasha and Kagome looked slightly confused, but sat down around the fire.
"It happened about five days ago. Kouga had shown up wondering where Kagome had gone since he couldn't find her,"
"So that wimpy wolf has something to do with this?" asked Inu-Yasha.
"No, it has to do with my sister,"
"Kikyo?"
"Yes, Kouga could smell her from your forest, so Miroku and the others went to check it out,"
"Well what happened?" asked Kagome.
"Kikyo came here to tell us that all the shards have been collected, except for the two that you have Kagome, the two in Kouga's legs, and the one in Kohaku's back,"
(To be honest, I don't know how many shards Kagome has in the series right now, so I'm just going to say two)
"So what did Kikyo do?" asked Inu-Yasha.
"She said the time would come for the battle against Naraku, and that she would be sending him and the jewel to hell, but then demanded to know where you were,"
"Of course Miroku wouldn't tell her," added Kagome.
"Yes, which upset my sister when she found out that Inu-Yasha was with you Kagome. She then kidnaped Miroku and the others, plus Kouga,"
"Why would she do that?" asked Inu-Yasha, "If she just wanted me, why not wait till I got back?"
"Most likely she saw Miroku and the others as a threat to her, the monk did try to rest her soul in peace, but Kikyo managed stop him,"
"Did she say where she was going?" asked Inu-Yasha.
"She said you would be able to follow her scent, and that she would kill Miroku and the others if you didn't come,"
Inu-Yasha just stared at the ground, "Then we should go rescue our friends,"
"Inu-Yasha, I beg of ye to put my sisters soul to rest,"
"I will," said Inu-Yasha, standing up, "Kagome, let's go,"
"Bye Kaede, we'll be back soon," said Kagome, following Inu-Yasha out the door.
************************************************************************
Kagome watched curiously as Inu-Yasha was on all fours sniffing the ground. They had been walking for almost three hours and yet there was still no sign of Kikyo at all.
"Any luck?" asked Kagome.
"No, I can't pick up her scent," growled Inu-Yasha, getting back up to his feet, "I hope she hasn't done anything to Miroku and the others,"
Kagome closed her eyes, and tried to see if she could sense Kouga's jewel shards.
"Can you sense Kouga's jewel shards?"
"No, which means they're not in this area," sighed Kagome, stepping up beside her mate.
Inu-Yasha didn't look at Kagome as she stood beside him, all he did was stare at the snowy path ahead of them. Kagome reached her small hand forward to grasp his, but the half demon pulled his hand away and started to walk away. She just stared as Inu-Yasha walked away from her, and wouldn't even look at her. Feeling a bit hurt from his action, she followed after Inu-Yasha, but kept her distance. Inu-Yasha kept sniffing the air, seeing if he could pick up Kikyo's or his other companions scent. Snow started to lightly fall from the sky, landing softly in Kagome's hair.
The two continued to trudge through the snow which was starting to get a little deeper. As they kept walking, the wind started to pick up, which meant that a blizzard was most likely come that night. Inu-Yasha stayed ahead, making a path for Kagome to follow so she wouldn't get stuck, but for some reason wasn't even talking to her. However, Kagome wasn't really paying attention, she was busy trying to concentrate on finding Kouga's shards, and how the others were. She hoped Kikyo hadn't done anything to them like she had threatened to Kaede.
Finally night had fallen, and Inu-Yasha had managed to find a cave that was big enough for the two of them. Kagome found some pieces of wood in the back and managed to make a fire.
"I'll go out and find us some food," said Inu-Yasha, heading to the entrance of the cave.
Kagome was about to protest that they had Ramen, but he was gone before she could say another word. Sighing, Kagome pulled out her sleeping bag and set it on the floor of the cave, and crawled in. *Why is Inu-Yasha acting like this? He wouldn't even talk to me today, or hold my hand. I know were not supposed to act so . . . well lovey to each other, but Miroku and the others aren't around, he could of least talked to me a bit* thought Kagome, pulling her sleeping bag covers over her head. To be honest, she really wasn't that hungry, and decided to hit the hay early.
*Is he going to act like this all the time? Is he really acting like this so others won't find out about our relationship? Or was it all a lie on the vacation? No, Inu-Yasha wouldn't do something that cruel to me . . .* Kagome glanced down at the engagement ring and the locket around her neck. *Inu-Yasha did promise me we would have a future together, but what happens if he is dragged down to hell with Kikyo . . . then what?* Kagome could feel tears welling up in her eyes. She wished she could show her love to Inu-Yasha by holding him, and telling Miroku and the others . . . but she knew better than that. Knowing Naraku he would definetly use their relationship in some sort of scheme of his. *Why am I even thinking this? Inu-Yasha and I agreed that we would act like nothing happened between us . . . so what am I worrying about it?* thought Kagome as she tried to drift off to sleep. Closing her eyes, Kagome tried to fall asleep . . . but it was no use. Kagome started to remember all the painful times she had been with Inu-Yasha, when the half demon unknowingly would break her heart. Every time she had seen him with the priestess, it felt like an invisible hand had ripped out her own beating heart and crushed it. Sighing heavily Kagome tried to forget the past, and remembered all the fun times she had had with Inu-Yasha, which lulled her into a peaceful sleep.
*****
Inu-Yasha entered the cave, totally covered in snow. In his hand were two dead rabbits and were frozen stiff. Wiping the snow off his clothes and hair, Inu-Yasha made his way to the back of the cave where his and Kagome's small camp was. He sighed in seeing that she was already asleep, and started to cook the rabbits for himself. As he approached the fire, the smell of dry tears hit his sensitive nose. *Was . . . was she crying?* thought the have demon, *Was it my fault . . . idiot . . . of course it's your fault . . . but what did I do?* Inu-Yasha knelt down beside her and frowned. It must of had something to do with the way he acted today. *I know Kagome tried to grab my hand a couple of times . . . but if Naraku had any spies following us he would deffinetly know. Even now we could be watched . . . so I can't risk showing my feelings for my mate here* Inu- Yasha sighed and started to cook his meal over the fire, but his eyes were locked on Kagome. It was going to be a lot harder than he had thought about holding his feelings back . . . even now he felt alone . . . not being able to hold his mate in his arms, protecting her from the world. His ears twitched, hearing her uneven breathing which meant she was not asleep.
"I know you're awake Kagome . . ." whispered Inu-Yasha.
Kagome's eyes slowly opened and stared into the half demons.
"I'm sorry,"
"For what?" asked Kagome.
"Making you cry,"
Kagome crawled out of her sleeping bag and in less than two steps stood in front of Inu-Yasha. Before the half demon could say a word, she took a seat in his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck, her head resting on his shoulder.
"Kagome . . ."
"Please Inu-Yasha . . . I just want you to hold me . . ."
The half demon sighed, and wrapped his arms protectively around his mate, "This is a lot harder than I thought it would be,"
Kagome nodded as Inu-Yasha's arms wrapped more tightly around her.
"As long as no one is around, we'll be fine," whispered Kagome.
"But Naraku has many spies . . . what if he's watching us right now?"
"I think he's concentrating more on finding the remaining jewel shards then us . . ." sighed Kagome, snuggling closer to her mate.
"But Kagome . . ."
"Hush . . ." whispered Kagome, pressing her finger to his lips, "Let's just enjoy this moment until tomorrow, when we have to search for Miroku and the others,"
Inu-Yasha sighed contently and hugged Kagome closer to his body, "Kagome . . . we should get some sleep,"
Kagome nodded as she got off Inu-Yasha's lap and crawled into her sleeping bag again. She watched the half demon munch on the cooked rabbit and waited until he was finished before speaking to him again.
"Do you want to sleep with me?" asked Kagome, moving over in the sleeping bag, showing there was enough room for Inu-Yasha to crawl in, "I've just gotten so used to being in your arms that I couldn't sleep before,"
Inu-Yasha just nodded and laid his sword by the fire, and removed his outer red haori before sliding in next to his mate. Snaking his arms around her waist, he pulled her back to his chest, resting his chin on top of her head. He could now hear Kagome's even breathing, indicating that she was now asleep, but the half demon was having a difficult time trying to sleep. He just couldn't help but think what could happen to Kagome now that they were back in the past. The only one that had been a threat in her world was Hojo and his brother, but they were both long gone. Now he had Naraku, and other demons to deal with in this time. Sighing, Inu-Yasha held Kagome tighter to his chest, and his eyes slowly closed, his mates scent sending him into a deep sleep.
************************************************************************
Inu-Yasha and Kagome walked side by side along the snowy path, and out of the village they had just been to.
"Well at least we know Kikyo is somewhere in this area," said Inu-Yasha, sniffing the air delicately.
"The villagers said they kept seeing a miko going in out of the forest, so she's got to be near," added Kagome, "And I'm starting to sense two jewel shards coming from somewhere in the middle of that forest,"
Inu-Yasha continued to sniff the air, "Yeah, I can smell her now,"
"Let's just hope Miroku and the others are alright," said Kagome.
Deep down, the two just wanted to run into the forest to try and find their companions, but decided to take it slow just in case they fell into a trap by not taking their time. Kagome lead the way since Inu-Yasha could smell Kikyo's scent all over the forest and couldn't really tell where she would be right now.
"That's funny," said Inu-Yasha, jumping over a log.
"What?" asked Kagome.
"For some reason I smell Sesshoumaru . . . or at least he was here . . ." said Inu-Yasha.
Kagome closed her eyes, and just let her senses guide her and her feet started to move on their own. Inu-Yasha watched curiously as Kagome walked through the forest, her eyes tightly shut and didn't trip on any of the branches. The half demon followed his mate, watching as she lead them to a very large cave. Inu-Yasha smelled the air delicately, "Yeah, she's been in there,"
"There's a holy barrier surrounding this place, I can feel it,"
"So can I . . . I'm already starting to feel weak just by standing near it,"
"Should I just go in?" asked Kagome.
Inu-Yasha smelled the air again, "I don't smell her in there, you go ahead and see if the others are in there, I'll stay out here and stand guard,"
Kagome nodded and pecked Inu-Yasha on the lips before heading into the cave, her grip tight on the bow. It was so dark she couldn't see her own hand in front of her face. She kept her hand on the wall, walking slowly so she wouldn't trip on anything.
Inu-Yasha kept his back to the cave entrance while his eyes scanned the forest. He couldn't see or smell that Kikyo was near, which made him a little less tense, but he continued to be watchful. Suddenly he could hear someone approaching from a fair distance away. Inu-Yasha smelled the air again, and growled. Kikyo was approaching from his left. Looking over his shoulder, Inu-Yasha sighed and headed in Kikyo's direction. ~~~~~~~~~
Kagome made her way around a bend and finally saw a small glow of light ahead of her. She started to pick up the pace and could finally see Miroku.
"Miroku!" cried Kagome.
"Lady Kagome!" yelled Miroku getting to his feet.
Kagome stopped and could see the barrier that kept her friends prisoner.
Sango was now standing beside Miroku, but Shippo, Kirara, and Kouga still remained on the floor.
"They can't move?" asked Kagome.
"Neither can Sesshoumaru," said Sango, pointing to the back of their small prison.
Kagome gasped as she saw Sesshoumaru's golden eyes glaring at her, but what made her gasp was seeing the small girl sleeping in the lords arms.
"Where's Kikyo?" asked Kagome.
"She left quite a while ago," said Miroku, "Can you get us out of here?"
Kagome put her hand against the barrier, "I've never seen a shield like this,"
"Neither have I, it some how keeps humans and demons prisoners," said Miroku. Touching the barrier which gave him a quick zap.
"We got out last time when Rin reached her hand through and pulled us out," said Sango.
"Then that should work again," said Miroku, "Sango, help Kouga to his feet, I'll help Sesshoumaru,"
"I don't need your help," hissed Sesshoumaru, his eyes flashing red.
"I'll make sure Inu-Yasha doesn't see me helping you if that's what you're worried about," sighed Miroku.
Kagome reached her hand through the barrier and took a hold of Sango's hand, pulling her through, along with Kouga, Shippo and Kirara. Then she helped Sesshoumaru and Miroku through. Kagome then grabbed Kouga's other arm and put it around her so she could help him through the cave.
"Ka . . . Kagome . . ." Kouga whispered weakly.
"Hang on Kouga, we're almost out," said Kagome.
They slowly made their way out of the cave and Miroku released Sesshoumaru before they came out.
"Inu-Yasha?" called Kagome, releasing Kouga.
"You mean mutt face is here too?" asked Kouga. "Kagome duck!" cried Sango, pushing her friend the ground.
Kagome was surprised, but she caught the sight of an arow that nearly missed her shoulder and hit a tree near by. Miroku stood in front of the two girls, his staff gripped tightly in his hands. Kikyo slowly made her way through the trees to the group standing outside the cave.
"Where's Inu-Yasha?" demanded Kagome, getting to her feet.
Kikyo just stared at Kagome, her eyes shifting to the others.
"Answer me!" cried Kagome.
"He's busy at the moment dealing with my soul catchers," whispered Kikyo.
"Inu-Yasha . . . " whispered Kagome, trying to head in the direction that Kikyo had come from.
"Don't move," said Kikyo, grabbing another arrow.
Kagome froze in her tracks, glaring at the arrow that was pointed at her heart. Suddenly Kouga leaped in front of Kagome, "You will not lay a hand on my woman you wench,"
"Your woman? Why don't you smell her carefully wolf demon, she is no longer yours," hissed Kikyo.
Kouga glanced at Kagome, and sniffed her, his eyes widening, "Why do you smell like Inu-Yasha?"
Kagome ignored Kouga and just stared at Kikyo, "How do you know?"
"I'm surprised that wolf didn't smell it in the cave," whispered Sesshoumaru, making sure Rin was behind him, but didn't really notice the trembling Jaken clinging to his kimono.
"Inu-Yasha decided that he would confess what he did with you these past few weeks, instead of me killing you,"
"What is she talking about?" asked Miroku.
"He told me everything you did, and after hearing that I cannot let you live," whispered Kikyo, her grip tightening on her bow.
Kouga still remained in front of Kagome, "Kagome, please tell me it isn't true," he whispered painfully.
"I'm sorry Kouga, but it is . . . I love him,"
The wolf demons face was full of hurt, but he stayed in between Kagome and Kikyo.
"Move wolf . . ."
"I cannot . . . "
"Then you shall die," said Kikyo, releasing her arrow.
Kouga wrapped his arms around Kagome and took off into the air. Miroku and Sango then charged at Kikyo trying to get her bow and arrow away from her grasp. Kikyo easily dodged their attempts and aimed another arrow at Miroku. However the miko suddenly became paralyzed as she felt something slice through her. Jumping to the side, Kikyo watched as three souls left her body, and Sesshoumaru was standing where she had last stood, holding the Tenseiga. Kikyo grabbed another arrow and aimed it at Rin, who had a scared Jaken standing in front of the girl, trying somewhat to protect her.
"I'm sorry, but I cannot die yet . . . not until Naraku is destroyed!" screamed Kikyo, "Now drop your sword!,"
Miroku and Sango watched the demon lord, and were surprised as he narrowed his eyes and placed the sword back at his hip. Kikyo smiled and turned her attention back to Kagome and shot an arrow at Kouga's arm. The miko than ran forward and grabbed another arrow, preparing to kill Kagome with a single shot. Kagome could only close her eyes, and waited for the arrow to hit her. Suddenly there was loud high pitched scream, and Kagome felt herself being lifted off the ground. She opened her eyes to see Inu- Yasha holding her in his arms.
"Inu-Yasha . . ." breathed Kagome.
Inu-Yasha just smiled as they landed back on the ground. Kikyo was lying in the snow, a small gash on her shoulder.
"Inu-Yasha . . . why?" whispered Kikyo.
The half demon glanced at Kagome, "Do they . . ."
"They know now," said Kagome.
"Know what?" asked Miroku, Sango, and Shippo.
"Kikyo . . . I'm with Kagome now, I told you that . . ." whispered Inu- Yasha, his grip tightening around his mate.
Kikyo's eyes narrowed, and before the half demon could move, she had grabbed another arrow and shot it at Inu-Yasha. The half demon cried out in pain when it hit his wrist, instead of Kagome's shoulder. Kikyo then charged forward her hands outstretched, and Kagome could feel the miko power that was coming from them. Kagome tried to push Inu-Yasha out of the way, but when the dead miko's hands came in contact with Kagome's flesh, there was a blinding flash of pink light.
"Kagome!" screamed Inu-Yasha.
Miroku and the others covered their eyes, waiting for the light to disappeared. When the light was gone, they all opened their eyes to see Kagome, Kikyo, and Inu-Yasha had disappeared.
TBC . . .
I am so sorry if this chapter really sucked, but I feel totally sick. The only reason I'm writing is because I felt guilty for not updating in a while, and didn't want you guys to wait any longer. Anyway, I will try and have the next chapter up as soon as possible. I'm so sorry this chapter sucked big time, but feh it's the best I can do.
Lynns.
Winter Wonderland
Chapter Eighteen
Inu-Yasha waited patiently downstairs while Kagome was getting her stuff ready for their trip back to the past. The snow storm had subsided, which meant Kagome's family would be able to travel safely home tomorrow.
"I'm ready,"
The half demon turned his head towards the stairs to see Kagome come down, wearing her usual school uniform, "You're going to wear that?"
"I always do,"
"Well you might want to wear something different," said Inu-Yasha, pointing to the mark on her neck.
"Oh right, I'll change then," said Kagome, handing her new bag she had gotten from Sota and headed back upstairs to change.
Inu-Yasha sighed. Things were going to a little difficult to act like nothing happened between them so Miroku and the others wouldn't notice. Shippo would deffinetly be able to smell something different on Kagome, but he was too young to really understand. If Kouga were to show up though, that would definetly cause a problem.
Kagome came back down again in a blue turtle neck and a light brown skirt, "Better?"
"Much better," smiled Inu-Yasha.
Kagome grabbed her jacket and headed outside with Inu-Yasha at her side. The snow was falling lightly from the sky, but the sun was being blocked by the dark clouds. They entered to well house, and Kagome climbed on Inu- Yasha's back.
"You ready?" asked the half demon.
"Yup,"
Inu-Yasha jumped into the well with his mate on his back. In a matter of moments they had landed in the past. Kagome looked up to see it wasn't snowing in this era, but like her time the sun wasn't shining. The half demon jumped out and landed softly in the snow. He then started to walk towards the village. Inu-Yasha had missed being in his time, and was happy to be back. They stopped on the outskirts of the village and the half demon set Kagome down.
"Why did you stop?"
Inu-Yasha didn't answer as he wrapped his arms around Kagome and brought her into a tight embrace.
"Inu-Yasha?"
"I just want to hold you for a bit longer . . . we won't be able to do this for a while,"
Kagome nodded and wrapped her own arms around her mate. After a while they released each other and continued their journey to the village. Inu- Yasha briefly kissed Kagome on the lips before entering the village. The half demon put on his usual stubborn face as they entered Kaede's hut.
"Inu-Yasha! Kagome!" cried Kaede, standing up from her spot by the fire.
"Yeah were back," grumbled Inu-Yasha.
"Where are Sango and the others?" asked Kagome, not seeing them in the hut.
"Ye might want to sit down for this news,"
Inu-Yasha and Kagome looked slightly confused, but sat down around the fire.
"It happened about five days ago. Kouga had shown up wondering where Kagome had gone since he couldn't find her,"
"So that wimpy wolf has something to do with this?" asked Inu-Yasha.
"No, it has to do with my sister,"
"Kikyo?"
"Yes, Kouga could smell her from your forest, so Miroku and the others went to check it out,"
"Well what happened?" asked Kagome.
"Kikyo came here to tell us that all the shards have been collected, except for the two that you have Kagome, the two in Kouga's legs, and the one in Kohaku's back,"
(To be honest, I don't know how many shards Kagome has in the series right now, so I'm just going to say two)
"So what did Kikyo do?" asked Inu-Yasha.
"She said the time would come for the battle against Naraku, and that she would be sending him and the jewel to hell, but then demanded to know where you were,"
"Of course Miroku wouldn't tell her," added Kagome.
"Yes, which upset my sister when she found out that Inu-Yasha was with you Kagome. She then kidnaped Miroku and the others, plus Kouga,"
"Why would she do that?" asked Inu-Yasha, "If she just wanted me, why not wait till I got back?"
"Most likely she saw Miroku and the others as a threat to her, the monk did try to rest her soul in peace, but Kikyo managed stop him,"
"Did she say where she was going?" asked Inu-Yasha.
"She said you would be able to follow her scent, and that she would kill Miroku and the others if you didn't come,"
Inu-Yasha just stared at the ground, "Then we should go rescue our friends,"
"Inu-Yasha, I beg of ye to put my sisters soul to rest,"
"I will," said Inu-Yasha, standing up, "Kagome, let's go,"
"Bye Kaede, we'll be back soon," said Kagome, following Inu-Yasha out the door.
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Kagome watched curiously as Inu-Yasha was on all fours sniffing the ground. They had been walking for almost three hours and yet there was still no sign of Kikyo at all.
"Any luck?" asked Kagome.
"No, I can't pick up her scent," growled Inu-Yasha, getting back up to his feet, "I hope she hasn't done anything to Miroku and the others,"
Kagome closed her eyes, and tried to see if she could sense Kouga's jewel shards.
"Can you sense Kouga's jewel shards?"
"No, which means they're not in this area," sighed Kagome, stepping up beside her mate.
Inu-Yasha didn't look at Kagome as she stood beside him, all he did was stare at the snowy path ahead of them. Kagome reached her small hand forward to grasp his, but the half demon pulled his hand away and started to walk away. She just stared as Inu-Yasha walked away from her, and wouldn't even look at her. Feeling a bit hurt from his action, she followed after Inu-Yasha, but kept her distance. Inu-Yasha kept sniffing the air, seeing if he could pick up Kikyo's or his other companions scent. Snow started to lightly fall from the sky, landing softly in Kagome's hair.
The two continued to trudge through the snow which was starting to get a little deeper. As they kept walking, the wind started to pick up, which meant that a blizzard was most likely come that night. Inu-Yasha stayed ahead, making a path for Kagome to follow so she wouldn't get stuck, but for some reason wasn't even talking to her. However, Kagome wasn't really paying attention, she was busy trying to concentrate on finding Kouga's shards, and how the others were. She hoped Kikyo hadn't done anything to them like she had threatened to Kaede.
Finally night had fallen, and Inu-Yasha had managed to find a cave that was big enough for the two of them. Kagome found some pieces of wood in the back and managed to make a fire.
"I'll go out and find us some food," said Inu-Yasha, heading to the entrance of the cave.
Kagome was about to protest that they had Ramen, but he was gone before she could say another word. Sighing, Kagome pulled out her sleeping bag and set it on the floor of the cave, and crawled in. *Why is Inu-Yasha acting like this? He wouldn't even talk to me today, or hold my hand. I know were not supposed to act so . . . well lovey to each other, but Miroku and the others aren't around, he could of least talked to me a bit* thought Kagome, pulling her sleeping bag covers over her head. To be honest, she really wasn't that hungry, and decided to hit the hay early.
*Is he going to act like this all the time? Is he really acting like this so others won't find out about our relationship? Or was it all a lie on the vacation? No, Inu-Yasha wouldn't do something that cruel to me . . .* Kagome glanced down at the engagement ring and the locket around her neck. *Inu-Yasha did promise me we would have a future together, but what happens if he is dragged down to hell with Kikyo . . . then what?* Kagome could feel tears welling up in her eyes. She wished she could show her love to Inu-Yasha by holding him, and telling Miroku and the others . . . but she knew better than that. Knowing Naraku he would definetly use their relationship in some sort of scheme of his. *Why am I even thinking this? Inu-Yasha and I agreed that we would act like nothing happened between us . . . so what am I worrying about it?* thought Kagome as she tried to drift off to sleep. Closing her eyes, Kagome tried to fall asleep . . . but it was no use. Kagome started to remember all the painful times she had been with Inu-Yasha, when the half demon unknowingly would break her heart. Every time she had seen him with the priestess, it felt like an invisible hand had ripped out her own beating heart and crushed it. Sighing heavily Kagome tried to forget the past, and remembered all the fun times she had had with Inu-Yasha, which lulled her into a peaceful sleep.
*****
Inu-Yasha entered the cave, totally covered in snow. In his hand were two dead rabbits and were frozen stiff. Wiping the snow off his clothes and hair, Inu-Yasha made his way to the back of the cave where his and Kagome's small camp was. He sighed in seeing that she was already asleep, and started to cook the rabbits for himself. As he approached the fire, the smell of dry tears hit his sensitive nose. *Was . . . was she crying?* thought the have demon, *Was it my fault . . . idiot . . . of course it's your fault . . . but what did I do?* Inu-Yasha knelt down beside her and frowned. It must of had something to do with the way he acted today. *I know Kagome tried to grab my hand a couple of times . . . but if Naraku had any spies following us he would deffinetly know. Even now we could be watched . . . so I can't risk showing my feelings for my mate here* Inu- Yasha sighed and started to cook his meal over the fire, but his eyes were locked on Kagome. It was going to be a lot harder than he had thought about holding his feelings back . . . even now he felt alone . . . not being able to hold his mate in his arms, protecting her from the world. His ears twitched, hearing her uneven breathing which meant she was not asleep.
"I know you're awake Kagome . . ." whispered Inu-Yasha.
Kagome's eyes slowly opened and stared into the half demons.
"I'm sorry,"
"For what?" asked Kagome.
"Making you cry,"
Kagome crawled out of her sleeping bag and in less than two steps stood in front of Inu-Yasha. Before the half demon could say a word, she took a seat in his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck, her head resting on his shoulder.
"Kagome . . ."
"Please Inu-Yasha . . . I just want you to hold me . . ."
The half demon sighed, and wrapped his arms protectively around his mate, "This is a lot harder than I thought it would be,"
Kagome nodded as Inu-Yasha's arms wrapped more tightly around her.
"As long as no one is around, we'll be fine," whispered Kagome.
"But Naraku has many spies . . . what if he's watching us right now?"
"I think he's concentrating more on finding the remaining jewel shards then us . . ." sighed Kagome, snuggling closer to her mate.
"But Kagome . . ."
"Hush . . ." whispered Kagome, pressing her finger to his lips, "Let's just enjoy this moment until tomorrow, when we have to search for Miroku and the others,"
Inu-Yasha sighed contently and hugged Kagome closer to his body, "Kagome . . . we should get some sleep,"
Kagome nodded as she got off Inu-Yasha's lap and crawled into her sleeping bag again. She watched the half demon munch on the cooked rabbit and waited until he was finished before speaking to him again.
"Do you want to sleep with me?" asked Kagome, moving over in the sleeping bag, showing there was enough room for Inu-Yasha to crawl in, "I've just gotten so used to being in your arms that I couldn't sleep before,"
Inu-Yasha just nodded and laid his sword by the fire, and removed his outer red haori before sliding in next to his mate. Snaking his arms around her waist, he pulled her back to his chest, resting his chin on top of her head. He could now hear Kagome's even breathing, indicating that she was now asleep, but the half demon was having a difficult time trying to sleep. He just couldn't help but think what could happen to Kagome now that they were back in the past. The only one that had been a threat in her world was Hojo and his brother, but they were both long gone. Now he had Naraku, and other demons to deal with in this time. Sighing, Inu-Yasha held Kagome tighter to his chest, and his eyes slowly closed, his mates scent sending him into a deep sleep.
************************************************************************
Inu-Yasha and Kagome walked side by side along the snowy path, and out of the village they had just been to.
"Well at least we know Kikyo is somewhere in this area," said Inu-Yasha, sniffing the air delicately.
"The villagers said they kept seeing a miko going in out of the forest, so she's got to be near," added Kagome, "And I'm starting to sense two jewel shards coming from somewhere in the middle of that forest,"
Inu-Yasha continued to sniff the air, "Yeah, I can smell her now,"
"Let's just hope Miroku and the others are alright," said Kagome.
Deep down, the two just wanted to run into the forest to try and find their companions, but decided to take it slow just in case they fell into a trap by not taking their time. Kagome lead the way since Inu-Yasha could smell Kikyo's scent all over the forest and couldn't really tell where she would be right now.
"That's funny," said Inu-Yasha, jumping over a log.
"What?" asked Kagome.
"For some reason I smell Sesshoumaru . . . or at least he was here . . ." said Inu-Yasha.
Kagome closed her eyes, and just let her senses guide her and her feet started to move on their own. Inu-Yasha watched curiously as Kagome walked through the forest, her eyes tightly shut and didn't trip on any of the branches. The half demon followed his mate, watching as she lead them to a very large cave. Inu-Yasha smelled the air delicately, "Yeah, she's been in there,"
"There's a holy barrier surrounding this place, I can feel it,"
"So can I . . . I'm already starting to feel weak just by standing near it,"
"Should I just go in?" asked Kagome.
Inu-Yasha smelled the air again, "I don't smell her in there, you go ahead and see if the others are in there, I'll stay out here and stand guard,"
Kagome nodded and pecked Inu-Yasha on the lips before heading into the cave, her grip tight on the bow. It was so dark she couldn't see her own hand in front of her face. She kept her hand on the wall, walking slowly so she wouldn't trip on anything.
Inu-Yasha kept his back to the cave entrance while his eyes scanned the forest. He couldn't see or smell that Kikyo was near, which made him a little less tense, but he continued to be watchful. Suddenly he could hear someone approaching from a fair distance away. Inu-Yasha smelled the air again, and growled. Kikyo was approaching from his left. Looking over his shoulder, Inu-Yasha sighed and headed in Kikyo's direction. ~~~~~~~~~
Kagome made her way around a bend and finally saw a small glow of light ahead of her. She started to pick up the pace and could finally see Miroku.
"Miroku!" cried Kagome.
"Lady Kagome!" yelled Miroku getting to his feet.
Kagome stopped and could see the barrier that kept her friends prisoner.
Sango was now standing beside Miroku, but Shippo, Kirara, and Kouga still remained on the floor.
"They can't move?" asked Kagome.
"Neither can Sesshoumaru," said Sango, pointing to the back of their small prison.
Kagome gasped as she saw Sesshoumaru's golden eyes glaring at her, but what made her gasp was seeing the small girl sleeping in the lords arms.
"Where's Kikyo?" asked Kagome.
"She left quite a while ago," said Miroku, "Can you get us out of here?"
Kagome put her hand against the barrier, "I've never seen a shield like this,"
"Neither have I, it some how keeps humans and demons prisoners," said Miroku. Touching the barrier which gave him a quick zap.
"We got out last time when Rin reached her hand through and pulled us out," said Sango.
"Then that should work again," said Miroku, "Sango, help Kouga to his feet, I'll help Sesshoumaru,"
"I don't need your help," hissed Sesshoumaru, his eyes flashing red.
"I'll make sure Inu-Yasha doesn't see me helping you if that's what you're worried about," sighed Miroku.
Kagome reached her hand through the barrier and took a hold of Sango's hand, pulling her through, along with Kouga, Shippo and Kirara. Then she helped Sesshoumaru and Miroku through. Kagome then grabbed Kouga's other arm and put it around her so she could help him through the cave.
"Ka . . . Kagome . . ." Kouga whispered weakly.
"Hang on Kouga, we're almost out," said Kagome.
They slowly made their way out of the cave and Miroku released Sesshoumaru before they came out.
"Inu-Yasha?" called Kagome, releasing Kouga.
"You mean mutt face is here too?" asked Kouga. "Kagome duck!" cried Sango, pushing her friend the ground.
Kagome was surprised, but she caught the sight of an arow that nearly missed her shoulder and hit a tree near by. Miroku stood in front of the two girls, his staff gripped tightly in his hands. Kikyo slowly made her way through the trees to the group standing outside the cave.
"Where's Inu-Yasha?" demanded Kagome, getting to her feet.
Kikyo just stared at Kagome, her eyes shifting to the others.
"Answer me!" cried Kagome.
"He's busy at the moment dealing with my soul catchers," whispered Kikyo.
"Inu-Yasha . . . " whispered Kagome, trying to head in the direction that Kikyo had come from.
"Don't move," said Kikyo, grabbing another arrow.
Kagome froze in her tracks, glaring at the arrow that was pointed at her heart. Suddenly Kouga leaped in front of Kagome, "You will not lay a hand on my woman you wench,"
"Your woman? Why don't you smell her carefully wolf demon, she is no longer yours," hissed Kikyo.
Kouga glanced at Kagome, and sniffed her, his eyes widening, "Why do you smell like Inu-Yasha?"
Kagome ignored Kouga and just stared at Kikyo, "How do you know?"
"I'm surprised that wolf didn't smell it in the cave," whispered Sesshoumaru, making sure Rin was behind him, but didn't really notice the trembling Jaken clinging to his kimono.
"Inu-Yasha decided that he would confess what he did with you these past few weeks, instead of me killing you,"
"What is she talking about?" asked Miroku.
"He told me everything you did, and after hearing that I cannot let you live," whispered Kikyo, her grip tightening on her bow.
Kouga still remained in front of Kagome, "Kagome, please tell me it isn't true," he whispered painfully.
"I'm sorry Kouga, but it is . . . I love him,"
The wolf demons face was full of hurt, but he stayed in between Kagome and Kikyo.
"Move wolf . . ."
"I cannot . . . "
"Then you shall die," said Kikyo, releasing her arrow.
Kouga wrapped his arms around Kagome and took off into the air. Miroku and Sango then charged at Kikyo trying to get her bow and arrow away from her grasp. Kikyo easily dodged their attempts and aimed another arrow at Miroku. However the miko suddenly became paralyzed as she felt something slice through her. Jumping to the side, Kikyo watched as three souls left her body, and Sesshoumaru was standing where she had last stood, holding the Tenseiga. Kikyo grabbed another arrow and aimed it at Rin, who had a scared Jaken standing in front of the girl, trying somewhat to protect her.
"I'm sorry, but I cannot die yet . . . not until Naraku is destroyed!" screamed Kikyo, "Now drop your sword!,"
Miroku and Sango watched the demon lord, and were surprised as he narrowed his eyes and placed the sword back at his hip. Kikyo smiled and turned her attention back to Kagome and shot an arrow at Kouga's arm. The miko than ran forward and grabbed another arrow, preparing to kill Kagome with a single shot. Kagome could only close her eyes, and waited for the arrow to hit her. Suddenly there was loud high pitched scream, and Kagome felt herself being lifted off the ground. She opened her eyes to see Inu- Yasha holding her in his arms.
"Inu-Yasha . . ." breathed Kagome.
Inu-Yasha just smiled as they landed back on the ground. Kikyo was lying in the snow, a small gash on her shoulder.
"Inu-Yasha . . . why?" whispered Kikyo.
The half demon glanced at Kagome, "Do they . . ."
"They know now," said Kagome.
"Know what?" asked Miroku, Sango, and Shippo.
"Kikyo . . . I'm with Kagome now, I told you that . . ." whispered Inu- Yasha, his grip tightening around his mate.
Kikyo's eyes narrowed, and before the half demon could move, she had grabbed another arrow and shot it at Inu-Yasha. The half demon cried out in pain when it hit his wrist, instead of Kagome's shoulder. Kikyo then charged forward her hands outstretched, and Kagome could feel the miko power that was coming from them. Kagome tried to push Inu-Yasha out of the way, but when the dead miko's hands came in contact with Kagome's flesh, there was a blinding flash of pink light.
"Kagome!" screamed Inu-Yasha.
Miroku and the others covered their eyes, waiting for the light to disappeared. When the light was gone, they all opened their eyes to see Kagome, Kikyo, and Inu-Yasha had disappeared.
TBC . . .
I am so sorry if this chapter really sucked, but I feel totally sick. The only reason I'm writing is because I felt guilty for not updating in a while, and didn't want you guys to wait any longer. Anyway, I will try and have the next chapter up as soon as possible. I'm so sorry this chapter sucked big time, but feh it's the best I can do.
Lynns.